Again, Long time... ...

So, I officially have no excuse. It's been way, WAY too long since my last post. Not since last year. (Had to throw in some new year humor). Although Christmastime is crazy busy, it was no excuse.

Obviously, we all got over the flu, I do, however, still carry the scars. It was very traumatic, and anytime one of my beloveds burps, I ask if they have to spit. (It's become a reflex, oftentimes I look for the nearest vestibule in case my children have that sudden urge to empty their stomachs.) I really hope no other parent ever, EVER has to experience the flu with their children. Totally unrealistic as that is, I really do hope.

Well, if I haven't any excuse, besides flu trauma, what have I been up to? Knitting. I have acquired an obsession with knitting. In fact, I'm probably only blogging right now simply because my hands are sore from the craft. I am officially in love. Not only is it amazing to create something from string and two sticks, but it's extremely therapeutic, and with a 2 and 3 year old driving me constantly insane, well, it helps. Plus, I have convinced their daddy that we'll save money, because I can knit them stuff that we would have to buy. (Psst, don't tell him that yarn is probably more expensive then most hats/mittens would be for most toddlers).

In fact, I've been living by another blogger and amazing knitter, the Yarn Harlot. I might even be considered slightly stalker-like. I reached into her blog's archives to read her blog from the very beginning. In my defence, I'm still in her 2004 (the same year she started the blog) and I only started reading her archives on Monday.

Here's some of my recent knit work that I've been up to in the last couple of months:

This is a mouse toy for the cat... he kept attacking the wool I used for Lucas' hat, so I decided to make him a toy. I hoped this would get him to stop attacking my Peruvian Wool, apparently, not so much.

 These hats were knit for a friend who's having twin girls. Hopefully I can get the info to send them to her in the hospital before her girls arrive. We were going to give them at her baby shower, but apparently her girls had other ideas.

This last picture is us in a rare occurrence over Christmas Break, it snowed. Last year it only snowed twice, and only stuck once. The recently knitted item is Lucas' hat. This is the same as the mouse toy. I decided to lock the cat up when needing to leave knit-work out, and to have a spray bottle handy when he was out and about the house. I won, the hat was finished.

On a bright note, Emily has finally learned to undress herself. Unfortunately, this means after her nap, and before I know to even get her, she's stripped bare. And I mean bare, no diaper, nothing. Regardless of what the contents of her diaper were. If nothing, it's keeping me on my toes... ... no wonder Women have a higher rate of heart disease, all this child rearing takes it's toll.

Emily, WAY too proud of her stripping capabilities! I think we're going to have our hands full during her 

teen years.

Well, hope your adventures give you as many laughs as they do tears!!!

The Flu has Landed... ...

It's official. All last week we were rocked by the flu bug. Fortunately, my mom took sick little Lucas off our hands, so that I could work last Tuesday afternoon. Also, it was Wayne's turn to stay home with sick child(ren). As fate would have it, although, Emily and I both woke up Thursday emptying our stomachs into any available bowl/bucket. It was beautiful.

My kids and I have been sick so often this year, I swear my boss thinks I'm lying. Truth is, I would rather be driving the bus with my kids strapped into their seats, then at home with one sick and one cooped up toddler, or two cooped up toddlers. The kids are fine now, I think. Lucas was fine come Friday, Emily and I were still reaching for buckets and bowls, and of course Wayne didn't even feel the slightest bit of nausea. Emily then threw us for a loop again on Saturday night, throwing up all over her bed and me. Again, beautiful. Monday morning was a joke, the kids had barely eaten in days, and finally we were going back on the bus. However, waking them up early didn't go over so well (they were a tad cranky). As I was directing them to the bus door,  I chatted with one of my fellow drivers, Lucas and Emily were moaning behind me, and sure enough, Lucas threw up right outside the bus door. I called my manager/dispatcher, she told me she could get another driver out there, but I told her I really didn't want to go home. So plastic bag in hand Lucas sat in his carseat while I blissfully drove the bus. He honestly was no worse for wear, just a tad tired and didn't throw up again... yet.

I would like to say the flu has finally left our now messy home, but I'm afraid it might rear it's ugly head at such a challenge. I will say this, the flu has won. I can only be thankful that my children are finally eating better, and I am back driving the bus.

41 Days Until Christmas!!!!

Time flies when you're having fun, right? This past Saturday sure flew by for me. I spent the day with my mom, dad, sister, aunt and uncle at my aunt's church's craft sale. It was AMAZING. Not only the part where I had a day completely away from the kids (sorry Wayne), the whole day was great. Every year my mom bakes and bakes and bakes her infamous pound cake to sell at her table, and my aunt has gorgeous hand knit items, crafted by herself, at her table. I also, always get to snatch one of her knitted items for one of the wee beasties. After the sale we head over to my aunt and uncles, they live just down the street, and they make us dinner. Dinner is always better when someone else makes it. Ok, I suppose that comment depends on the 'someone' and their cooking capabilities. The only sad part, was that the day ended much too quickly.

Sunday was also a fairly good day, didn't quite beat Saturday. We had a great time at home I mostly watching and playing around with the beasties (amazing how a day away makes me much more appreciative, and patient with them), while Wayne did the flooring and installed a new vanity in our bathroom. The only regret of the weekend... no dishes were done, and no groceries were bought. Guess I'll be catching up today/tonight.

Saturday my mother asked me what was on mine, Wayne and the kid's Christmas lists. Honestly, I had no answer. The kids are fairly well off in the toy department, Lucas gets so many hardly used clothes from his cousin, and Emily... well, she needs some clothes, but not much. Wayne already got himself his Christmas present in September, an iPad, so he doesn't really need anything, and me... ... I have no idea. Some date nights for Wayne and I would be great. Kinda hard to put that in a box or stuff in a stocking. However, the topic really got me going... too much to do and get, and too little time to do it in. Only 41 days until Christmas. I usually create a Christmas list with every person's name and gift idea, then check beside when I've bought the gift. I've already bought a few gifts, kid wise, but haven't invested any time or money into the adults on my list yet.

Here's hoping you guys/girls out there are much further along on your Christmas shopping than I. Well, best make the wee beasties their lunch, I hear them chanting 'I hungry' upstairs.

Support

I recently realized I have a new follower, a new irish twin mommy out there. First, congratulations on two beautiful boys, and second... as stressful as this voyage may seem most times, I've found there are so many 'aww' moments that make up for the stress.

Looking back, I remember how difficult it was the first few months after Emily came home. 1. She was a horrid sleeper. 2. Lucas only wanted mommy (but because of my c-sec, I couldn't hold him for a while without help). and 3. I remember someone telling me to take it one day at a time. This advice I had to switch to taking it one minute at a time.

The first few weeks after Emily was born, my mom and sister were there all the time to help. (Wayne worked horrible work hours and only had the first week after she was born off). After that, it was September, my sister went off to school, and I was stuck, alone, with two babies who needed lots of attention--Lucas was still only crawling at this point. Lucas quickly learned to hold his own bottle while drinking, or propped it on the coffee table while I fed his sister. And soon thereafter, I learned to put Emily in a reclined high chair with a blanket on her tray to feed her while spoon feeding Lucas. I will add a picture for demonstration. I did have to stop numerous times to pick up Emily's bottle and re-adjust the blanket, but for the most part, this worked (thank you to my ingenious mother-in-law who taught me this trick when Lucas was younger).

The hardest part, I found, was putting them on the same schedule, and sticking to it. Unfortunately I was little lax with my schedule, and had little time to call my own. Eventually, though, we made it through. I'm glad I always had a camera on hand, because if it were not for all the pictures of Emily's first 4-6 months of life... I don't think I would remember much of what we did.

I highly recommend a double stroller. We bought ours in the states the April before Emily was born, and it was the best thing I ever bought. Also, when you have this double stroller, do NOT take it for granted. Think of it as a third child. Unfortunately, a couple months after starting as a bus driver, I backed our truck into the stroller... ... the kids were in the truck, I had just forgotten to put the stroller in the truck too. I had to make do without a stroller for months before Wayne finally fixed it. So, treat the stroller like gold... it is a nightmare to do without.

Invest in a magic bullet. I was highly upset when infomercials in Canada started broadcasting the baby bullet when Emily first born. I had totally had that idea first! However, a magic bullet works just as well, and if you have a tupperware set, then you already have a place to store the food you make for your baby(ies).

Clothing, now, if you're lucky, you'll have two boys, or two girls.. I, unfortunately-clothes wise, got one of each. With two boys/girls, you can just pass the clothes down (so long as there is a size difference between your children). With one of each, once you find out you're pregnant with a boy/girl, when you go to buy clothes for the one, buy the same size in the opposite gender. Also, ALWAYS look for sales, this helps a bunch. I personally go to a used clothing for kids store. Especially for my daughter. Lucas gets hand-me downs from his cousin, Logen, who's 17 months older then him. Emily, however, she was in newborn clothes for the first 3 months of her life. In fact, right now she's only in 12 months and possibly a 12-18 month depending on the make. Again, she's our itty bitty. We rarely get asked if Lucas and Emily are twins, because Emily is so small she looks almost 2 years younger then Lucas instead of only 10 1/2 months younger.

Well, this is all the time I have to give some support. Hopefully this helps all you moms out there who're going right along with this Irish Twin insanity. Remember, things will always get better, you just have to look for the bright side, or make your wee beasties laugh.

HAPPY BELATED HALLOWEEN TO ALL!!!! From my little dragon and my paper bag princess!!!

Long Time, No Post

I'm sure as most of you other mom's out there know, being a mom to a 2 year old and 3 year old is A LOT of work and extremely time consuming. Hence, my lack of posting. We have also been dealing with fleas our cat brought home; yippee. On top of all that, we officially have pink eye. Part of me is groaning at another thing going wrong, however, another part of me is recognizing that this will be a much needed down-time break. We've been going fairly busy around here since our move July 16th.

I believe, last time I wrote, I was laughing at the fact that my friend is pregnant, again, with a 10 month old? Well, he's officially 1, as of October 23rd, and mommy and daddy are happily and eagerly awaiting baby number 2. Lately, Wayne and I have been going back and forth over whether or not to add another wee beastie into our mix. Part of me loves the cute newborn baby stage (not so much the lack of sleep) and how amazing it is to see the world for the first time again, through their eyes. However, I've decided the only reason I would want another child, is to do it right.

To explain, I was only dating their daddy 8 months before we found out we were 2 months pregnant. Only a couple of months before Lucas was born did we live together. I felt a lot of guilt in getting pregnant, when not meaning to, I was on the pill. After Lucas was born I had an IUD inserted. Sure enough, when Lucas was 4 months, we found out we were 2 months pregnant AGAIN. I feel like I made the decision to have these children, regardless of what Wayne thought or wanted. We never planned either of our children, but can honestly say, we would never change them for the world! Another reason I think I feel the need to plan a baby, is to have the baby the way I always wanted. Lucas was a c-section. I was in labour for 8 1/2 hours before his heart rate started going crazy with each contraction and the Dr. decided this was due to the fact that he would not fit through my pelvis. I always dreamed of a more natural childbirth. Emily was also a c-section. An emergency one, this because my incision from Lucas' c-section was thinning apart with all my braxton hick's contractions.

Sometimes, I wonder what it would be like, if we had planned Lucas and Emily, and had the more natural birth. But then, thinking of having another baby, I remember all the diapers, and sleepless nights, and frustration at trying to decipher baby cries. Wayne and I decided, we're good. We've got two wee beasties, and for now, that's just enough for us!

Computer fixed, for the time being...

I have officially fixed what was wrong with my computer and the internet set up. Now back to posting funny stories and asking/giving advice.

I remember when I first found out I was pregnant with Lucas. Everyone had advice for me, as every mother, aunt, sister, cousin, etc. have for new expecting and even after you've had the baby, mothers. I think the best advice I ever got came from a friend's sister in law. She had just had a baby boy (Max, her 3rd baby) and told me that I would get ALL sorts of advice. The best advice she gave was to take the advice you like, and will use, and smile and nod at all other advice, even if you don't want to hear it.

I think the worst part is, that I have used this SO much. As great as family and extended family is, everyone is different, and parents differently. Not to say one person is a better parent then another, but sometimes, the advice just doesn't work on one child, where it works amazingly on the other child. Everyone is different, that is why I sometimes use any and all advice (except for something I really am against--like abuse) in situations, where I just have simply no clue what to do--like for potty training, or discipline, or bed time armageddon, well, you get the picture.

On a lighter note, Wayne said to me at dinner tonight, "Remember when we used to have to feed them both? Like last year?" Ugh, I shuddered at the memory. We were eating spaghetti and I remember the amount of clean up and tears (from all of us, maybe excepting Wayne) over dinner time. Lucas was only 2 last year, but because Emily was 1 and usually fed really messy dinners (less mess this way) Lucas regressed to a 1 year old state.

We then laughed at the thought that my friends are going to have to deal with this soon. As mean as that is, at least we'll have close friends understanding the difficulties, and novelties, of having irish twins (or in their case, 18 month apart babies, which I'm thinking will feel just the same).

I can't wait to meet the new little bundle. I like using her already for my baby fix, but her boy is now almost 11 months and not really wanting to snuggle so much anymore. Oh well, perhaps Wayne and I will revisit the decision on having another little one over the next couple of years. Of course, by that time, we are going to make absolutely sure there will not be another irish twin occurance, no offense to my baby girl, but she was quite the shocker. Finding out you're 2 months pregnant while dealing with a 4 month old was quite unnerving. However, now that they're getting much older, it really is getting easier.

Knock on wood.

Technical Difficulties

Lately I've had some issues with my computer. I have a mac. It was a requirement for my Photography course at Humber. It is now 5 years old, and causing me some grief. Not only does it not properly update my iPhone (an upgrade gift to myself 2 years ago), now it will not work with any downloads for macs. They all require system 10.5 and I'm stuck at 10.4.11. One tiny little step away from 10.5, but hey, that's my luck.

We'll see what I can do, but now I have to download all my books and phone info on my hubby's computer, and that bothers me. I should be able to do what I need to on mine. But frankly, we just don't have the money for me to go buying myself new toys.

Well, hopefully I can save for a new computer in the new year. That's all for now. Still dealing with these difficulties. Kids on the other hand, fairly good considering their mom was fighting with a computer after dinner tonight.

Go-go-go!!!!

Crazy busy these last, well, really the last week. We had my friend's wedding rehearsal, her wedding, family day, work start-up meeting, family trip to the EX and well, today I must admit I did next to nothing. This last week more than made up for my 1 day of slack. However, that being said, my kitchen and living area look like a bomb went off. I believe I'll have my work cut out for me tomorrow/tonight.

The wedding went very nicely, I must say. Lucas was the ring bearer and Emily a flower girl. They did very VERY well, and I gave them great big hugs and kisses for making her wedding go nicely. Of course, telling Lucas that the groom had cookies in his pocket helped, and Emily had a 9-year old flower girl going down the aisle with her.

Yesterday we went to the EX or Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). We thought we would only be there perhaps half the day, depending on the kids. Well, we were shockingly there until 9pm at night. That was a whole 10-11 hours spent at the EX. Lucas and Emily both went on their first roller coaster and rides and had a great time. The only thing I think I would change is that next time I would spend more time at the kiddie park, then walking through the international building and energy centre. Granted, we went with family and wanted to visit with all, however, the kids were quite restless after 2 hours of shopping time. So next time, we come, we ride, we meet up for lunch, and then when kids are rather tired out, we can shop til we drop (if we want and have money after all those rides).

Well, lesson learned, never EVER plan so many things in one week's time and always tire kids before doing anything that needs to be done!

Well, off to make some bagle-egg-and cheese sandwiches for dinner, yum!! Write you all tomorrow.

Heart to Heart

Why does it always seem that you're tired and finally in bed, that 1. your children magically awaken from a nightmare or 2. your significant other and you finally get a chance to talk. And yes, I mean actually talk.

This is why I'm officially awake now. At 12:45am. My hubby and I realized in bed that hey, long time no talk. Granted we were up until 12am anyway watching a magnificent storm cut across southern Ontario (we both love the sound and 'show' of a good thunderstorm). However, once I finally was in bed and quite tired at that, we talk. Of course, he's fallen asleep now, while I am now wide awake.

I must admit, however, that these midnight heart-to-heart times are really quite nice. Regardless of the fact that I usually end up having to wake in 5-6 hours after them. I have found that as our little ones have gotten a little older, nap times have slowly ceased, night time has become later and later, and Wayne's and my one-on-one time has almost dwindled to no time.

Well, there's my heart-to-heart with all you other mothers and sisters and such out there. Hope your midnight heart-to-hearts find you sleepy in the end and not wide awake.

It's been WAY too Long...

Well, it has been almost a year since my last post. All I have to say, is boy does time fly. I do apologize for the lengthy absence. Since my last post, we have moved, yet again, I officially am a school bus driver, and am officially going insane. Okay, so maybe I'm not 'officially' going insane, but I'm pretty sure I'm getting close.

Since school ended in June, we have planned and executed a Stag and Doe for my friend (who's getting married this upcoming Sat.) we have packed, moved, and somewhat unpacked, planned and had Emily's 2nd birthday party. And the big issue on this summer's agenda has been... Potty Training. Yep, officially insane. I'm starting to think that potty training twins would be easier. My sweet itty bitty is SO much better at this peeing on the potty thing, then her brother. Lucas would rather play, or crawl around on the floor (and yes, this is the 'almost' 3 year old). I have decided that the time is just not right for this boy, and to concentrate my efforts on my baby girl.

Besides all that, I am hoping for advice from anyone out there regarding sleep habits and toddlers. My kids, since moving into a townhouse and having their own rooms, scream bloody murder when it comes to bed time. Sometimes it will be almost 3 hours of screaming and whining before they pass out from sheer exhaustion. Any and all advice will be taken and used and I promise to write the results on here. Lucas has been making a habit of passing out at his door on the floor (hardwood floor) and waking up numerous times throughout the night screaming (most likely due to discomfort). Then the battle of bed time starts all over again.

Please, PLEASE, I beg to have some semblance of a good night's sleep again. Advice welcome.

On a side note, I read an article today regarding mom's and judgments on us. This article sparked my interest, as it compared being a mom to a competition. How becoming a mom, you become automatically enrolled into this Mom-Judging Olympics. For more information on this article go to: http://moms.today.com/_news/2011/08/11/7334726-the-mom-judging-olympics-a-competition-nobody-meant-to-enter
and read up... I must say, I was shocked at how close to home this hits, with not just other moms I meet on a daily basis, but also other moms within my family and how I feel judged, even if that's not the case.

Well on that note, I wish you all a good night's sleep (fingers crossed for me and my hubby as well).

Finally On Our Own

Well, it's been about 2 months since my last post, and quite a lot has happened. Wayne and I officially moved out on our own... we've gotten ourselves a nice little apartment while we wait for our townhouse. On the one hand, we're excited about moving out again, but then we have to 'move' again... ... and that part was quite an... adventure.

Emily is now officially 1, and Lucas, well, he's definitely going through those terrible, TERRIBLE twos, and he's not even two yet. I dread the thought of this continuing for another 18 months to two years... I can only hope Lucas will grow out of it before Emily starts hers.

I did my first mini-shop yesterday with the babies. We're about a 20 minute walk from the stores, so I packed the stroller and off we went. It felt quite nice, and the babies slept like logs when we got back! Today I plan on playing at the park with them, then running some errands.

One of the greatest things that has happened since my last post is that I officially have a job!!! Well, besides the whole mothering-job-thing. This one will hopefully be a little less stressful. The greatest part, though, is that my babies get to come with me! I'm officially a school bus driver! At first, I thought the babies would be too young to come with me, but my supervisors ensured me that they can come, as long as there are seat belts for their car seats on my bus, which there will be! I can't wait to see how they hold up with sitting for so long... ... If worse comes to worse, I'll put them in daycare. However, I'm hoping it won't come to that.

Well, I best be off to get ready to run my errands today. Hopefully I'll be posting more often, however, I can't guarantee that due to motherly, and now job too, demands.

Take care, and keep taking each day at a time!!!

Crunch Time

It's officially been one week since my last post. I feel a little sheepish that it's been so long. I've wanted to post, even thought about what to post, however, became side tracked and no posting occurred.

Wayne and I have been looking for a place to move for a little while now. We've finally decided to move into an apartment building for the time being. Due to this move, there are numerous little worries I have. Number crunching is the ultimate worry. As most of you know, Wayne is the one who goes to work everyday and I stay at home with the babies. As much as I've wanted to work and leave the babies in daycare with their cousin, I haven't found the job to match the criteria needed.

Wayne works afternoons, therefore, I would have to work daytime and be able to pick up the babies by 5:30pm. The only other criteria I have is to be able to make enough to cover child care, gas, and a little left over for oil changes, etc. Of course, making more then that would be nice, but not likely.

Back to the number crunching. With babies so close in age, it's easy in some ways and 10 times more difficult in others. Both babies are in some stages at the same time, therefore, diapers, wipes, clothes, food, drink, etc is doubly expensive. However, toys, books, entertainment, etc. costs no more then what you paid for your first child, since you still have all this on hand. I still need to buy formula, bottle inserts, baby food--I don't always have time to make it, and other things associated with my younger baby.

All this adds up quite astonishingly. So far, my parents have been footing the bills on adult food and heat, hydro, cable, etc. Wayne and I also bought out vehicles either just before or just after we met, so there's about $800/month just on vehicle payments combined. I've started cutting corners a lot lately. Mostly, I only get anything for myself if given money for my birthday/mother's day/Christmas. Wayne, however, is still spending money on clothes, and miscellaneous items he 'needs' for work. Since I'm the stay at home mom, I don't get that privilege.

Basically, we've found we'll have about $800/month leftover from his income to cover our variable costs. Perhaps I should start toilet training the babies now? It's definitely going to be interesting to see how this all pans out. We've already started this budget, let's see how all goes.

For all you others out there living on such a budget, I hand my hat off to you!

Life Happens

I know it's been four days since my last post, but life happens. We've been up, down and around the corner here. I'm sure you all understand that, everyone has one or more of those days. I miss seeing my friends lately. I've been so busy with life at home, that I feel as if I've neglected them. Their lives, although baby-less, are just as busy as mine. It's nice being able to catch up with them, things always seem as if no time has passed since we've seen each other.

Last post I was so busy, I forgot to mention that Emily is officially 10 months old! I weighed her yesterday and surprise, surprise, she's only 13 lbs. I could have sworn she would be about 14 lbs, but she's crawling all over the place now, it only makes sense that she's lost some ounces. Lucas is a tiny little boy, he only weighs 21 lbs. They both eat like teenagers, I swear, but don't gain much weight. Wayne thinks it's because they're also constantly moving and drinking water and only rest when asleep.

We've been to the park quite a few more times since my last post. Almost twice daily, unless it's wet and raining. They absolutely love the outdoors. While playing quietly--and yes, I said quietly- today they were amazed that a beautiful monarch butterfly was resting on the plants just outside the window. Lucas called it a 'duhduhfly'. Funny, I know, but he's still learning to pronounce some words.

Just a little boast about my boy, he started trilling or rolling his tongue when he was only about 8 1/2 months old. By the time he was 10 months he was singing 'la la la la'. I never thought it made him special, but was constantly told that this was not a normal thing. Then again, he is my son and has quite the long 'Gene Simmons' tongue like his mama. Emily was not gifted with this tongue, and makes normal baby gurgles.

Well, that's all for now, I've got to finish up my plans for Father's Day this weekend. I might not be able to post tomorrow or the next day, but I will be back. Hang in there mommies, things do get a little easier, but always remember, life happens.

It's Been Awhile

I know it's been a little bit since my last post, but things are a little busy here. Thursday was a wonderful day; I can't exactly remember what made it wonderful or what the babies and I did, but it was a great day. Friday was not nearly as great a day. My grandmother fell and is in the hospital. I am, and I'm not worried. Worrying doesn't get me anywhere, and I know that she's in very good and caring hands.

Yesterday, Saturday, was my brother's b-day dinner here, and it was a fairly good time.

Lately, I've been feeling extremely crafty. Usually, I feel a little crafty, but lately, all I want to do is paint, or scrapbook--thank you Cyn, colour, knit, something, anything to help pass the day. I can't wait until my babies are old enough to have try craft time with. The main problem right now, is that Emily is definitely too young, without another parental supervisor, and most of my craft supplies are hidden away in boxes in the basement. Perhaps I'll finish the scarf I started knitting for myself a while back.

Lucas has been quite the little devil lately. I believe I already mentioned the sudden sibling rivalry. Now, he's not only doing that, he's also getting into everything he's not supposed to. I've caught him with his daddy's cell phone, licking an adapter for the cordless phone, biting on some nail clippers, sitting on the top (as in the very top) of the couch, and many other things he knows is bad. My biggest problem is trying to make him understand not to do that. I've done the hand slapping--this results in him slapping us or thinking it a game, I've yelled 'NO!' at him, I've even resorted to time out. The yelling is definitely not effective, it gets his attention, but doesn't stop him from doing what he's doing. Time out, although sound great, hasn't worked. Perhaps he's still too young. He ends up sitting in a corner for about a minute and then goes back and ends up doing whatever it was he was doing all over again.

I've had it up to my teeth! I have no idea how to get my 20 month old to listen. Any advice? Believe me, I'll use it!

Emily's a whole other issue. She's all smiles and giggles when fed and happy. However, she's been waking up twice a night now for the last few nights. I personally think it's her teething. Wayne thinks it's some sort of diabolical plan on her part. Either way, it's pitching both Wayne and I at each other. I can't imagine doing this alone, but sometimes, I wish he would just go away.

On a good note--if you look at it that way, Emily is already pulling herself up to the couch, and now she's walking along the couch! She's only been crawling for 3 weeks! On top of that, she's started drinking the water from Lucas' water bottle. This bottle has a non-spill straw. I was amazed when I saw her sucking away on it this morning.

Uh oh, Emily's awake from her nap. Hope to post tomorrow!

Gotta Love Babies

Unfortunately, I did not post yesterday. Not because I didn't want to, I was simply too busy enjoying my babies and friends. Yesterday was a wonderful day, I had a very nice nap thanks to Wayne, and spent a nice relaxing day playing and enjoying the 'baby' days.

When Lucas was a baby (he's officially a toddler since he walks now) I was constantly told to enjoy them while he was young. I fully understand the reasoning behind this now. Each milestone and accomplishment Lucas worked toward Wayne and I anxiously waited for. We wanted him to crawl, to eat solids, to walk, to talk. Now that he's older, I realize how much I've missed his baby days. Now don't get me wrong, I love how independent my little boy is. However, I long for the days I get to hold and cuddle with him. These days are already few and far between.

Now that Emily is almost 10 months, I don't want her to grow up too fast. At first, I was thinking that the day she could crawl couldn't come sooner. What parent doesn't want their baby to be able to entertain themselves by moving around? It's only been about 2 and a half weeks since she started crawling, and she's already scaling pillows on the floor, and just today pulled herself up to the couch--as in standing holding onto the couch! I can't believe how big my baby girl is getting.

On a different note, I think Lucas is officially becoming jealous of his little sister. Because he was only 10 and a half months when she was born, I didn't know if there would be any jealousy or not between them. Recently, he won't stop hitting, kicking, shoving her, taking her toys, etc. Perhaps this is normal sibling rivalry, but all I know is that I definitely need to nip this in the bud right now. The violent outbursts, that is. Emily is so small, and still too young to fight back against Lucas. Once she realizes how, well, that will be something to behold.

As much as Lucas attacks his sister, the two also have their amazingly charming times. Such as when Emily babbles, and Lucas repeats her, and they play at all the different noises they can make together. Or when Lucas shares his crackers, and even his water with Emily. Sometimes, he even kisses her without us prompting him, or hugs her.

It's sad to think, but my babies are growing up. Lucas is already a toddler. Before I know it, Emily will be in high school and Lucas going off to College/University or wherever his little heart takes him.

But for right now, I'm going to just enjoy the good times while I can. I'm going to love every good minute the babies have to give me.

Relax

Isn't it true that with your first baby you're very by the book or follow every word on what the doctor advises? I've realized how different I've treated both babies, regardless of their age difference. It's sad, but I feel much closer to Lucas, then with Emily. Not that I don't love Emily just as much, but I connect more with Lucas. Perhaps it's just our personalities are similar, but I must say, Lucas is my favourite baby boy! Granted, he's my only baby boy. I wonder if Emily had been a boy, if I would have felt the same way.

Emily is a little tyrant lately. She's teething, and boy is she teething. She's overly moody, and whiny, and yet, I can't remember her not being this way. I know there was a time, but I can't recall how blissful it was. Probably because I was more focused on other problems needing to be fixed, or was too sleep deprived. Lucas is only making matters worse. He's officially hit his terrible two a whole 4 months early.

It's a war here.

Today, as a reprieve, I took the children to a grassy hill at the park today. No one was around, and the babies had the best time of their lives. Who would've thought that they would prefer to be crawling/walking around in the grass, playing with sticks, grass and weeds? We had such a great time, we were almost late for Emily's doctor appointment. I think we're going to do this again tomorrow.

I took a video of the trees blowing in the wind. If there's one thing my babies can agree on, it's that the trees dance. They love to watch the trees dancing to the wind, in any season. They'll be playing in the living room and stop, mesmerized by the trees dancing outside the bay window.

There's something wonderful about laying in the grass just watching the trees dance. Perhaps that's why the babies had such a wonderful time today. I'll post again tomorrow about our hopefully relaxing time at the park.

Another Day Another Post

I first, and foremost, must thank my one follower, Deanna. She's my cousin and a mother of 3. She too is going through the trenches of motherhood, and I very much look up to her and any/all advice she has.

I was feeling like these posts were falling into a dark corner on the great void of the internet. At least, now I feel as if someone is listening. I have also learned that a few friends have also started reading. I must apologize, the first few posts are a bit dark, but then, doesn't everyone have their dark days?

On a happier note, last night was my brother's 30th birthday surprise party. It was a wonderful night. There were a few awkward moments, but besides those, everyone had a wonderful time. Even my grandmother was humming along and tapping her cane to the music.

Partially, I found that Wayne and I being able to go out without the babies, made our night. There aren't very many times we get out alone. When we get the opportunity, we definitely take it. Surprisingly my brother was actually surprised and after every drink he was given, he remembers the night. At least, that's what he says.

Well, now for the 'support' portion of this blog. I've found that Wayne and I definitely need to find some more alone time. Not necessarily just the two of us, but with other adults as well. The awkward part I referred to during the party was when I was talking with my aunts and uncles. It felt weird talking about anything other then the babies. I must say there were a few pauses in the conversation, and I didn't really know how to continue adult conversation without mentioning the babies. It's horrible. Note to self, more time becoming aware of world events and anything else, not just my babies.

I figure this is something every parent goes through. You become so absorbed into your baby/babies, you become detached from the outside world. I've started my new awakening by turning the channel on the television to the radio/news and reading up on 2012. I don't believe the world will end, but what if the world as we know it changes? I figure I'll read up on what I can and learn whatever I can, just in case, so I'm prepared. At least the babies will be older by 2012.

Ever watch those movies such as 2012, The Day After Tomorrow, and that and wonder what you would do if things like that started happening? Every time I watch one of those movies I end up crying. I can't help but cry, how would I save both my babies in a flood/catastrophic event? Thank god for Wayne, I know he would do everything he could in such an event.

Well, time to wind myself down, and probably feed Emily another bottle. Hope all is going great for you reading out there!

Making It All Worthwhile

As I mentioned yesterday, I had my driving test, and passed. One less on my list of things to do. I am officially a holder of the G class license. I also went to renew my driver's license, and that left Wayne alone with the babies for almost 2 hours. The babies were still alive when I got home, of course. Wayne wasn't even the least bit frazzled looking. Again, I resented him. He was, however, quite tired. Emily and Lucas both awoke within minutes of my leaving, and Wayne had to get up to take care of them.

Yesterday was a much happier day for me. The babies were not nearly as cranky or whiny as they usually are, and I even got a great nap in the afternoon. I woke, fed the babies dinner, then got treated to some fast food from my dad--thank you. As I was finishing my meal, one of my best friends called. Last night was the Relay For Life. She asked if I was up for heading over and participating with my old work crew. Seeing an opportunity to get out for me and the kids, I nearly bolted out the door in anticipation.

Relay for life is really important to me. I didn't realize until last night, how important it was. My friend died of cancer at 23 (under 3 months before her 24th birthday). Two days before her 24th birthday, I found out I was pregnant with Lucas. I felt as if she were with me, and missed her terribly. Taking the babies with me to Relay For Life helped a lot. It made me feel as if I were helping in some way. I definitely want my children to understand the importance of such events.

On a funny note:
Lucas said 'Peepee' last night while I was changing Emily's diaper. Now, I don't tend to
use baby words with my babies, so I was quite confused as to where this word came from.
Yes, she had a pee diaper, but that's not the point. I thought it cute, but still confused on
the word.
This morning my mom was bouncing Lucas on her knee. She said 'Yippee!'. Lucas, in
turn, said, 'Peepee!'. Now whenever Lucas says it, at least I know what it means. He
was saying yippee to Emily because she was done her diaper change. God I love him!

Days/nights like these make babies all worthwhile.

Term 'Irish Twins'

I feel obliged to apologize to anybody or persons I may have insulted by using the term 'Irish Twins'. I do realize that this term was used condescendingly towards the Irish. I mean no offense whatsoever. When I use this term, I only am referring to my children, and other siblings, born within 12 months of one another. Although, it has now broadened towards siblings born less than 24 months apart.

It was actually something I kept thinking about last night, among other worries, that kept me from falling asleep soundly.

Now that I've gotten that off my chest. I have a driving test today. That means, that Wayne is in charge of the babies while I'm gone. As liberating as this feels, I can't help but feel a little apprehensive. Wayne is a wonderful father, most of the time. Not to say that he's a horrible father at any time. Just that he tends to do things differently from me, and doesn't know all the little things the babies like and don't like. He also feeds them differently and does everything differently then I do. Obviously, he isn't me, and I can't expect him to do everything my way. That being said, I do still feel apprehensive about him watching the children so early.

Usually, Wayne doesn't wake up, unless he has to, until much later. That's why I've already put the babies down for a nap, and hope they stay asleep as long as possible for their father's sake. He's not exactly a morning person. Who is, though, when you wake up to two screaming and hungry babies?

Well, I best be off to my test. I reiterate, I apologize to anybody or person I may have insulted by using the term 'Irish Twins'. I do not use this word condescendingly at all in any of my posts, and think the Irish to be a very fun and interesting lot.